Out, Out Quotes (Robert Frost)

What does the phrase 'five mountain ranges one behind the other under the sunset far into Vermont' emphasize?

What image is conveyed by 'he swung out towards them holding up the hand...as if to keep the life from spilling'?

In the context of the phrase 'and they, since they were not the one dead turned to their affairs', what is prioritized?

What does the personification 'the buzz saw snarled and rattled in the yard' suggest?

What effect does the hyphen have in the phrase 'the boy saw all-'?

What horror is conveyed by the phrase 'don't let him cut my hand off-'?

What does the phrase 'little-less-nothing' in terms of rhythm mirror?

Key Themes and Devices in "Out, Out—" by Robert Frost

The remote setting is highlighted through the imagery of "five mountain ranges one behind the other under the sunset," emphasizing nature's dominance in the characters' lives.
The objective portrayal of events is evident when the boy "swung out towards them holding up the hand," reflecting a detachment from emotion amidst a traumatic situation.
The line "and they, since they were not the one dead turned to their affairs" illustrates how life persists despite tragedy, indicating a focus on survival and functionality in a subsistence farming community.
Personification of the buzz saw, which "snarled and rattled," creates a menacing tone to introduce danger, suggesting violence that looms over the narrative.
The punctuation in "the boy saw all-" utilizes a hyphen to evoke an unspoken horror, hinting at the gravity of mortality and the suddenness of death.
The phrase "don't let him cut my hand off-" employs a hyphen to encapsulate a moment of pure fear, reinforcing the poem's raw emotional undercurrents.
The rhythmic choice in "little-less-nothing" mirrors the heartbeat of the boy, creating an intimate connection between his physical state and emotional experience in the face of danger.

Explore the significant quotes from Robert Frost's poem 'Out, Out'. This flashcard quiz provides insights into the themes and imagery present in the poem, allowing you to delve deeper into the author's intent and style. Test your knowledge and understanding of these memorable lines.